SURPRISE, Ariz. -- The Buck O'Neil Legacy Seat program, a staple at Kauffman Stadium since 2007, will continue this season.

Once again, the Royals and FOX Sports Kansas City will recognize someone in the community who embodies Buck O'Neil's vibrant spirit with a place of honor in the seat that he filled for countless nights as a scout and a fan.

At the home opener on April 8 as the 40th anniversary of Kauffman Stadium is celebrated, the Royals will honor Charles Wheeler, who was the Kansas City mayor when the facility opened on April 10, 1973, with a 12-1 victory over the Texas Rangers.